Affordable Care Act

Beginning Jan. 1, 2014, the Affordable Care Act will require everyone to have health insurance. The goal is to make coverage more accessible and affordable for those who do not currently have health insurance or have limited coverage.

In Washington state, Medicaid eligibility will expand to include more adults and children. Washington state has also implemented a web site "www.wahealthplanfinder.org" to assist families and individuals to access the Health Benefit Exchange. The HBE provides the potential for families and individuals who do not have employer-sponsored health insurance to enroll in a Health Plan. In many cases, families and individuals may also receive a subsidy from the government to help pay the premiums for the health insurance. Health insurance coverage offered through Washington Healthplanfinder includes Expanded Medicaid (also called Apple Health) as well as various qualified insurance plans.

As a benefit to our community, PMH Medical Center is offering to assist individuals and families in accessing the Healthplanfinder and determining their eligibility. We have a Health Benefit Exchange "assister" on site for your convenience and to assist with enrollment, answering questions, etc. For assistance or an appointment, please contact our Business Office at (509) 786-6645.

Enrollment for health insurance through the state will begin on Oct. 1, 2013. Below is more information to help you better understand and make the most of these new benefits.